Women's empowerment and leadership in education: a key factor for emiratisation in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

Women in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have a role to play in the development of their country’s political, economical, educational and social goals. Although, social constraints exist for women and work, they presently dominate sectors like education.

A qualitative research design was employed to identify barriers, current leadership roles and the participation of national female educators in the decision-making process. Barriers to both job entry and career progression were identified. In particular, married educators with children found difficulties in balancing their roles as care givers and career women. Educational leaders used transformational leadership styles, were considered role-models and contributed to decision-making by providing quality decisions based on their experience and expertise. Strategies to assist women in overcoming barriers are recommended because when women start forming an integral part of the workforce, their empowerment and their input in terms of leadership will be a key factor for the UAE government’s goal of Emiratisation.